Lesson Plan | Active Methodology | Kinematics: Vertical Motion

Premises: This Active Lesson Plan assumes: a 100-minute class duration, prior student study both with the Book and the beginning of Project development, and that only one activity (among the three suggested) will be chosen to be carried out during the class, as each activity is designed to take up a large part of the available time.

Objective

Duration: (5 - 10 minutes)

This phase of the lesson plan aims to set clear and actionable objectives that will guide students in exploring vertical motion. By outlining what they will learn, students can concentrate better on the key aspects of kinematics and how to apply them to real-world problems, preparing them for class activities.

Objective Utama:

1. Enable students to calculate distances in vertical motions, including total distance travelled, using kinematic formulas.

2. Guide students to determine the final velocity and time of travel in vertical motion scenarios, such as the free fall of an object.

Introduction

Duration: (15 - 20 minutes)

This phase aims to engage students in problem-solving that will prompt them to recall and apply their earlier knowledge in kinematics, particularly in vertical motion. Through these scenarios, students are encouraged to think critically about how to use the studied formulas. The contextualization illustrates the relevance of vertical motion in the real world, fostering greater interest and involvement with the material.

Problem-Based Situation

1. Picture an object dropped from a tall building while another is thrown upwards at the same time. How can we use the motion equations to predict when both will be at the same height?

2. Think about a ball being thrown upward. What factors will influence the time it takes to come back down, and how can we calculate its speed at the peak of its flight?

Contextualization

Understanding vertical motion is crucial not just in theoretical physics but also in practical fields like aerospace engineering and sports. For instance, calculating the path of rockets or the performance metrics of athletes involved in jumping events directly applies kinematic concepts. Grasping ideas like acceleration due to gravity and air resistance is vital for understanding both natural and technological events.

Development

Duration: (70 - 80 minutes)

The Development phase aims to immerse students in real-world scenarios where they can apply the theories and equations of vertical motion they've studied. By collaborating in groups to tackle issues and perform creative tasks, they build skills in teamwork, critical thinking, and applying theoretical knowledge practically. Each activity is crafted to be both enjoyable and educational, ensuring a robust understanding of kinematic concepts.

Activity Suggestions

It is recommended that only one of the suggested activities be carried out

Activity 1 - Rocket Race

> Duration: (60 - 70 minutes)

- Objective: To apply kinematic equations in a fun and engaging way, promoting teamwork and critical thought.

- Description: Students will form groups of up to 5 to design and simulate the launch of a paper rocket. They will utilize vertical motion equations to predict how high the rocket will soar and how long it will be airborne.

- Instructions:

• Each group receives materials like paper, scissors, and tape to construct the rocket.

• Groups must apply vertical motion equations to compute the predicted max height and flight duration, assuming an initial speed that will be gauged at launch.

• Launch the rockets and jot down the results.

• Compare the predicted results with the actual results and discuss any variations.

Activity 2 - Jump for Victory

> Duration: (60 - 70 minutes)

- Objective: To grasp how vertical motion equations relate to day-to-day and athletic activities, enhancing learning through practical engagement.

- Description: In this group activity, students will measure the height and flight time of a vertical jump. Each group will designate one member as an 'athlete' whose jump performance they will assess and analyze using motion formulas.

- Instructions:

• Select a volunteer from each group to perform a vertical jump.

• Time the jump from takeoff to landing with a stopwatch.

• Use the gathered measurements to calculate the maximum height achieved during the jump.

• Discuss the application of vertical motion equations in human movements and compare results across groups.

Activity 3 - Egg Parachutist Challenge

> Duration: (60 - 70 minutes)

- Objective: To investigate the role of air resistance on vertical motion and apply kinematic knowledge to real-world problems.

- Description: Student groups will create a parachute for an egg using light materials, while also calculating the descent time ensured to prevent breaking upon landing.

- Instructions:

• Construct a parachute using plastic bags and string, attaching it to an egg.

• Estimate the descent time using vertical motion equations factoring in air resistance.

• Drop the egg attached to the parachute from a set height and record the time taken to descend.

• Analyze the accuracy of calculations and evaluate how well the parachute protected the egg.

Feedback

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The objective of this feedback stage is to cement the knowledge gained through reflective discussions on experiences from activities. Group discussions enable students to learn from one another, identify common pitfalls, and clarify uncertainties, thereby reinforcing their understanding of vertical motion concepts and their applications in real-life scenarios. This stage also facilitates assessment of student understanding and helps refine future instructional strategies.

Group Discussion

To kick off the group discussions, the teacher should motivate students to share their insights and experiences from the practical activities. Begin with a quick recap of the learning objectives and invite each group to present their findings, hurdles, and insights. It’s key for the teacher to guide the discussion to highlight the relevance of kinematic formulas in real life and how discrepancies between theory and practice can arise and be addressed.

Key Questions

1. What were the main challenges faced when applying vertical motion formulas in the practical tasks?

2. How did the real conditions differ from the ideal circumstances considered in the equations?

3. What insights did you gain about the kinematics of vertical motion that were unclear from theoretical studies alone?

Conclusion

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The purpose of this Conclusion stage is to ensure that students have a solid understanding of all concepts discussed during the lesson, linking them with practical examples that demonstrate their real-world significance. This moment also serves to reinforce learning by revisiting key points and empowering students to apply their knowledge in future academic and professional endeavors.

Summary

In conclusion, we will recap the key concepts covered in Kinematics today, especially focusing on vertical motion. We'll revisit the formulas for calculating distances, final velocities, and travel times, along with their applications in real-world situations like falling objects or vertical launches.

Theory Connection

Today's lesson was designed to merge theoretical knowledge with practical tasks, allowing students to observe the direct implications of vertical motion equations. Activities like crafting and launching paper rockets and the egg parachutist challenge illustrated how the theoretical insights translate into practice, leading to a deeper, more engaging learning experience.

Closing

Grasping vertical motion is critical not only for understanding physics itself but for practical applications in everyday scenarios, such as in engineering and sports, and even in daily activities requiring the analysis of movement. This knowledge builds a strong foundation for future physics and other applied science studies.